Fiberglass Pools Archives - Page 6 of 11

Another Thursday Pools Expansion Reflects Their Relentless Commitment to Quality, Innovation and Safety

Posted on May 15, 2019October 18, 2024 by krista

The 40,000-square foot expansion means shorter turn-around times, improved employee safety, even better quality control and room to keep creating amazing innovations and durable fiberglass pools!

https://www.youtube.com/embed/NWAEQtscxXE
Indiana’s Thursday Pools manufactures the world’s best and most durable fiberglass pools, and they just keep finding ways to get better. They’re relentlessly committed to quality, safety and innovation. They are in the process of completing a 40,000-square foot expansion of their fiberglass pool manufacturing facility which will increase their total facility space to 100,000-square feet. The expansion increases production, storage and employment capacities and will help Thursday Pools create an even safer working environment.

“We started out with 20,000 square feet. We just added 40,000 square feet onto our facility two years ago, but we’re still growing,” said Bill Khamis, Thursday Pools CFO. “We’ve made a commitment to continual improvement through our ISO 9001 certification, and this expansion is the next step to advance and improve our business, on many levels.”

Faster turn-around times

Thursday Pools’ business is rapidly expanding. With more than double the total facility space, their team will be able to manufacture more fiberglass pool shells, resulting in shorter lead times during high season. So, when you’re ready to buy YOUR inground fiberglass pool, you’ll be in the swim sooner!

Local job creation

Thursday Pools cares about their community, and they’re excited to bring more jobs to Hancock County. They truly believe that their employees are family, and they’re delighted that their family now has room to grow.

Safety is paramount

Loading a fiberglass pool shell onto a truck is no small feat. A fiberglass pool shell weighs between 1200 and 4200 pounds, depending on the size of the pool. Having a dedicated area for fiberglass pool shell loading means that employees will be safer during the loading process because there will not be any other equipment or production happening in the same space.

More room to keep inventing

The team at Thursday Pools never stops thinking about ways to improve the fiberglass pool experience. The expanded facility will allow them to have dedicated manufacturing areas for two amazing Thursday Pools fiberglass inground pool innovations: The Geo-Anchoring Pool System and the Backfill Eliminator®. Both of these innovations have resulted in exclusive, cutting-edge installation processes that make their pools easier to install, with the industry’s best warranties. They’ve also added two new Beach Entry designs, Grace and Sandal (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839), to their line this year, and they will begin production of their new Sunken Living Room designs in 2020.

An outdoor pool showroom

The facility expansion is not limited to just the interior. It will also include a ½-mile of road leading to a twelve-acre fiberglass pool storage area. This new storage area will facilitate lead times on orders and allow both customers and dealers to view the pool shells in person, as the Thursday Pools team can chauffeur them through the storage area via golf carts. So, if you want to actually have a seat in one of their pool designs, you can pop over to Fortville and check them out!

Still looking good!

The expansion will also look good. Thursday Pools is housed in a beautiful, historic, brick building. The additions to the building will match the original facade to maintain the integrity of the appearance of the building.

“We’re really never going to be satisfied,” concluded Thursday Pools CEO Ed Vondell. “There’s always something we can do better. We’re constantly striving to make fiberglass pools better for pool buyers and to make the Thursday Pools’ experience the very best it can be for our customers, our dealer family and our employee family.”

How Our ISO 9001 Certification Shows Our Commitment to Quality

Posted on May 13, 2019June 10, 2024 by krista

What does the word “quality” mean to you?

The dictionary defines it like this: “The standard of something as measured against other things of a similar kind; the degree of excellence of something.”

We really like that last part … “the degree of excellence of something.” For us, that something is fiberglass pools. At Thursday Pools, we’re so committed to having the highest degree of excellence in our fiberglass pools that we invited the International Organization for Standardization, or ISO (that sets standards for excellence) to check out what we’re doing and rate us on it. And they’ve given us their seal of approval.

ISO 9001 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for a quality management system. The mission of the ISO is to “provide specifications, guidelines or characteristics that can be used consistently to ensure that materials, products, processes and services are fit for their purpose.” In order to be ISO 9001 certified, a manufacturer must allow a third-party organization to come in and routinely audit their organization to ensure they are following the standards set forth.

Thursday Pools is the only pool manufacturer in North America with its ISO 9001 fiberglass certification, and we do it voluntarily.

Some industries, such as construction and engineering, require suppliers to be ISO-certified, either by law or contractually. Achieving the certification takes commitment, time, effort, and expense, and no other fiberglass pool company in the United States is ISO 9001 certified. Thursday Pools is committed to producing the highest quality fiberglass pools and believes that implementing and being held accountable to the ISO standards will help ensure that’s always the case.

As part of the ISO Certification, Thursday Pools commits to:

Establishing and following a set of operating requirements in product design and development, production, and customer service.
Performing internal, in-depth self-assessments of business processes.
Self-assessing interaction between each area of the business.
Recording, tracking, and researching quality issues and implementing strong corrective actions.
Engaging employees by getting them involved in improvement activities.
Holding suppliers to a high standard of service and quality.

Thursday Pools must also follow these guiding Quality Management Principles:

Ensuring that the business keeps its primary focus on the customer.
Committing to leadership at all levels maintaining a unity of purpose in achieving the organization’s quality objectives.
Engaging and empowering employees at all levels to enhance the quality of the product.
Utilizing a process approach that can be recorded, measured, and scrutinized.
Demonstrating a dedication to continuous improvement.
Making decisions based on evaluating and analyzing data.
Maintaining a strong relationship with suppliers.

What does the Thursday Pools’ ISO 9001 Fiberglass Certification mean for our customers?

You’ll know that you’re purchasing a fiberglass pool shell that’s manufactured in the United States, with carefully sourced materials.
Your new fiberglass inground pool will have been manufactured to the highest standards, as well as inspected and tested more than any other fiberglass pool in the industry.
You’ll be purchasing a fiberglass pool that’s loaded with cutting-edge innovations based on customer and dealer feedback from a company that’s relentlessly committed to improvement.
You can count on the production and delivery times you’ve been promised because Thursday Pools has streamlined its operations for efficiency.
You’ll receive the best customer service possible from people who love what they do and are passionate about making sure you’re thrilled with your new pool.

A lot of companies claim to have the “best quality” product. Sometimes it’s hard to know if that’s true. But in the fiberglass pool business, there’s just one company that has fiberglass certification in quality. That company is Thursday Pools, and they offer two industry-leading warranties to back that quality up. So, if you’re in the market for a new fiberglass pool, and quality matters to you, choose a Thursday Pools fiberglass pool. And enjoy years of worry-free pool ownership and a lifetime of memory-making fun.

Thursday Pools Makes News with Four Trailblazing Fiberglass Pool Innovations

Posted on May 2, 2019October 24, 2024 by krista

Indiana fiberglass pool manufacturer, Thursday Pools, is relentlessly dedicated to improving the fiberglass pool experience and creating the best fiberglass pools. Thursday Pools is never satisfied with the status quo when it comes to pool innovations. They’re like mad scientists on a mission to create ways to simplify installation, protect pool owners’ investments and offer previously unheard-of fiberglass inground pool experiences. They’re invited to fiberglass pool conferences around the country to speak about their “intent to invent.” And, they’ll soon garner national attention as they’re featured on the television show, “Success Files with Rob Lowe,” a show that highlights trailblazers in every industry.

First of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

The Beach Entry (Zero Entry) Fiberglass Pool (Utility Pool Body US Patent No. 10,358,837 Utility Pool System US Patent 10,472, 839)

Thursday Pools introduced the beach entry fiberglass pool in 2018. And their two designs, Grace Beach Entry and Sandal Beach Entry are now available to order. Like the sunken living room, the beach entry feature was previously only available in upscale resorts and custom private home installations. Now, fiberglass pool owners can have the experience of a day at the beach in their own backyards.

“In just a few weeks, we’ll be installing our first one–the freeform Sandal. These customers knew they wanted this pool before we could even order it, and they were willing to wait for it. It will be unlike anything anyone in their neighborhood has ever seen. The beach entry pools allow us to offer something other pool builders can’t. They’re great for older people and for pets, because they’re easy in and out.” – David Burton, Burton Pools and Spas in Springdale, Arkansas

Second of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

The Lucky 7 Skimmer®

Good pool maintenance is key to protecting the investment in a new fiberglass pool. Skimmers are an important part of keeping a pool clean because they keep debris from clogging the pump and allow water to circulate freely. Until Thursday Pools invented the Lucky 7 Skimmer, pool installers struggled to fit traditional skimmers against the sloped walls of a fiberglass pool. Typically, they used extension collars to get the skimmer to sit flush with the wall, which created a less polished look and didn’t allow the skimmer to function as well as it could. The Lucky 7 Skimmer is the first skimmer designed explicitly for fiberglass pools, and it’s compatible with any fiberglass pool brand.

“We use the Lucky 7 Skimmer on every pool we install. Because these skimmers take less time to install, they save pool buyers money on installation. They work better too, because they sit at the right angle for the slope of a fiberglass pool wall. And they look great—the mounting plate comes out farther and covers all the raw fiberglass.” – Doug Thoele, W.E.T. Pools and Spas in Effingham, Illinois

Third of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

The Backfill Eliminator®

Built-in tanning ledges are one of the most highly sought-after features in fiberglass pools today. They traditionally presented a challenge for both fiberglass pool owners and installers, as the shallow area underneath the tanning ledge can feel hollow underfoot if it’s not properly backfilled. Thursday Pools solved that issue by creating the Backfill Eliminator, an integrated tanning ledge support structure comprised of an extra thick honeycomb core and support pillars that ensure your built-in tanning ledge will last a lifetime.

“We’re 100 percent committed to Thursday Pools. The fact that they’re ISO 9001 certified means that they have a checks and balances system for maintaining quality that no one else has. I’m having pools shipped from almost 700 miles away. I could save some money on shipping by getting them from somewhere closer. I’m not going to do that. It makes my cost higher, but it’s worth it.” – Jason Cherry, Cherry Pools in Broken Arrow Oklahoma

What’s Next?

Who knows? The innovative team at Thursday Pools never stops. Follow Thursday Pools on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or Pinterest to be the first to know what they’re up to. And, if you’re ready to take the plunge with the industry’s best fiberglass pool, get a FREE estimate today.

Fiberglass Pool Durability and More Reasons to Choose Fiberglass

Posted on April 25, 2019January 27, 2025 by krista

First, congratulations on deciding to look into a fiberglass pool! More and more families are going this route. A swimming pool is great for making memories and fantastic for exercise, socializing, and relaxation. It can also increase the resale value of your home. Whether or not you are planning on selling your home, most homeowners ask at some point before buying, How long does a fiberglass pool last?” In this post, we’ll answer that and give you even more reasons pool buyers choose a fiberglass pool, starting with reason one: fiberglass pool durability.

Reason 1: Fiberglass is arguably the most durable of pool types.

With proper maintenance, fiberglass pools have been known to have a lifespan of 50 years or more. Fiberglass manufacturers craft the shell in multiple layers, with each layer serving to maximize the strength and durability of the entire structure. The layers help the fiberglass withstand weather conditions while retaining flexibility and resisting cracking. Unlike vinyl liner pools that need regular liner replacements or gunite pools that require acid washing and replastering, fiberglass pools can remain in service without major repair for several decades.

Reason 2: Fiberglass is accepted as the lowest to maintain among pool types.

Part of what makes fiberglass pools so durable also makes them lower maintenance. Compared to traditional vinyl liner and concrete pools, the non-abrasive and non-porous fiberglass pool surface inhibits algae growth. Their algae resistance alone saves time scrubbing and reduces the chemicals needed to maintain the pool.

Reason 3: Fiberglass pools install quickly.

Vinyl and gunite pools are built from scratch in your backyard. The on-site build means they’re subject to the elements during construction. And if it rains for the whole week, you’ll have to wait until Mother Nature allows construction to continue. Fiberglass pools are constructed in a factory-controlled environment and brought to your home in one piece. Building indoors means tighter quality control and makes fiberglass pools easier and quicker to install because the project is much less dependent on the weather. Fiberglass pool projects are often completed from start to finish in three weeks or less, so your family can be in for the swim before you know it!

Reason 4: Fiberglass pools have high-end features built into their designs.

Fiberglass pool designs include some of the hottest trends in inground pool projects. Many pool owners desire built-in tanning ledges, wrap-around benches, swim-outs, and in-pool steps or beach entries. Instead of being an add-on cost, these features are already part of many fiberglass pool designs. Previously only available in high-end (expensive), custom gunite pools, fiberglass pool owners also have the option to purchase a patented beach entry (zero entry) fiberglass pool for a backyard staycation paradise (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839).

Reason 5: Fiberglass pools have smooth, non-slip surfaces.

Wherever you sit or walk on a fiberglass pool is a fantastic combination of non-skid and super smooth gelcoat. It’s safe for entering and exiting and is easy on your feet and swimsuits. While gunite pools offer a non-slip surface, the rough texture can be uncomfortable on feet and tend to snag on swimwear. Despite the textured surface, gunite pools can also become slippery as they are prone to algae growth. Vinyl liner pools face similar issues with algae, becoming slick and posing safety concerns. Additionally, vinyl liners can develop wrinkles over time, creating uneven spots that may present potential tripping hazards.

Reason 6: Fiberglass pools are pet-friendly.

Another durability-related factor is the strength of a fiberglass pool’s finish, and its multiple entry and exit points make it pet-friendly. With vinyl pools, you have to be conscious about your dog’s toenails potentially tearing a hole in the liner, but the surface of a fiberglass pool is durable enough to resist any scratches from toenails. Gunite pools can be as rough on paws as they are on feet and swimsuits. Additionally, all those highly sought-after built-in fiberglass pool features, like tanning ledges, zero-entry, and swim-outs, make it easy for pets to enter and exit the pool. So, if sharing your new pool with the four-legged members of your family is important to you, fiberglass may be the right choice for you.

Reason 7: Fiberglass pools have many design options.

Fiberglass pools are available in many shapes, sizes, and colors. They easily complement any backyard design, whether it’s sleek and modern, free-flowing, laid-back, or anything in between. Fiberglass pools come in small, medium, and large sizes to accommodate different yard sizes. Plus, with a variety of color options, pool owners can create the mood that best matches their aesthetic. Simply put, a fiberglass pool enhances your home’s value and provides a stunning backdrop for countless days and nights of fun and entertainment.

Are You Feeling Inspired?

Why not keep it going with our pool idea book, or you may want to explore our fiberglass pool designs? Ready for some advice from an expert? Let us put you in contact with a dealer to get all your questions answered.

The Gonzalez Family Gets a Goliath

Posted on March 5, 2019October 24, 2024 by krista

Meet the Gonzalez family*: The Gonzalez family lives in a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio called Loveland. Alonzo and his wife Maria own a large home in a beautiful subdivision where they raised five kids. They now have ten grandkids who are the light of their lives. While everyone leads busy lives, Maria still cooks family dinner every Sunday night, and everyone who lives anywhere nearby sets time aside for it as best they can. There’s always something to celebrate, whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary or a great report card. Nothing is more important than spending quality family time together.

The Gonzalez family has decided to get a pool. As the grandkids get older, they’re always looking for something fun to do at Nana and Papa’s house. Maria and Alonzo have a huge yard, and the kids love to run around and play football and tag, but the kids have been hinting at how much they love to swim and how they wish there was a pool they could all enjoy. Maria and Alonzo know that a nice inground pool will keep the kids looking forward to visiting and bringing their friends as they get older.

Here are some factors they’re considering:

They want a BIG pool. If they’re getting a pool, they want it to have plenty of room for everyone to be able to get some exercise and play games.
They want a pool that’s easy to get in and out of. Their youngest grandchild is two years old and Maria’s mom, who lives nearby, will be using the pool as well. They want a pool with steps that make it easy for their youngest and oldest swimmers (and everyone in between) to enter and exit the pool.
They want a pool that’s great for socializing. The Gonzalez household has always been the go-to house for neighborhood parties. Having a pool will make those parties even better. Maria and Alonzo want a pool with lots of spots to sit and visit so their older neighbors have a place to relax when they come by.
They want a pool that will be low-maintenance. Maria and Alonzo are busy. They don’t want to spend tons of time on pool maintenance. They want a pool that’s easy to take care of and keep clean so they can spend the maximum amount of time enjoying the pool with their kids and grandkids.
They want a pool that will be safe for their whole family. Their yard is fenced in, so they don’t have to worry about neighbor kids getting in the pool unattended. But they don’t want to worry about the kids in their house wandering out to the yard and getting in the pool alone.

The Gonzalez family chose the the Goliath by Thursday Pools.

Here’s why:

The Goliath is huge. The Goliath by Thursday Pools comes in three sizes—big, bigger and massive! They chose the largest option, the 16’ x 41’. It has a maximum depth of 6’8” so the deep-end is great for the grown-ups while the shallow-end, at just under 4’ in depth, is a good spot for the younger swimmers to practice their swimming skills near the steps.
Wide, non-skid steps. The Goliath offers wide, curving dual corner entry steps that are adjacent to the built-in benches. This makes the Goliath super easy for swimmers of all ages to ease into the pool. Plus, the gel coat finish gives their new inground fiberglass pool a really nice non-skid surface that’s easy on swimsuits and little feet.
Ample seating and a courtesy ledge. In addition to the built-in benches by the steps, the Goliath also offers dual, deep-end benches with swim-outs and a courtesy ledge all around the deep-end for plenty of space to socialize and relax.
Low-maintenance fiberglass. Maria and Alonzo wanted a fiberglass pool because they like the way fiberglass pools are made. They’re lower maintenance than vinyl and gunite. They never need liner replacements or resurfacing, and they require fewer chemicals to maintain water balance, which means more time to play with the grandkids!
Automatic pool safety cover-ready. The Goliath by Thursday Pools is built to be automatic pool safety cover-ready. Automatic pool safety covers offer the ultimate peace of mind for inground pool owners because they keep the pool closed up tight when it’s not in use and require a code to open. The Gonzalez’ love the fact that they’ll never have to worry that their young swimmers could wander into the pool unattended.

The Gonzalez family has their Happily Ever After:

Now, the Gonzalez family has a new Sunday tradition. Sure, they still enjoy one of Maria’s wonderful meals, but they all enjoy a Sunday swim as well. The kids come up with new games to play in the pool all the time, and they’ve made new friends with the neighbor kids too. Nana and Papa’s house is their favorite destination!

The Gonzalez family found their perfect pool, and you can find your dream inground fiberglass pool too! If you’re ready to take the plunge with a new inground fiberglass pool, get an estimate today.

Get a closer look at the Goliath pool design.

Take a 360 tour of the Goliath pool design!

*Based on the personalities, demographics and fun-loving spirit of our Thursday Pools customers, we’ve created some fictional families and paired them with their perfect pools!

How to Choose the Thursday Pools Design that’s Right for You

Posted on February 28, 2019April 3, 2024 by krista

You’re actually doing it. You’re getting an inground pool. You’re past the wishing and dreaming stage. You’ve done your research, set your budget and considered your financing. You know you want a fiberglass pool, because your research has shown that fiberglass is the way to go for durability, overall value low pool maintenance and awesome aesthetics. Your research has also shown that, of all the fiberglass pool manufacturers out there, Thursday Pools is the top of the line for quality and variety of design options. And, because sustainability is important to you, you also like the fact that we hold an ISO 14001 certification for environmental stewardship.

So, now it’s about to get real up in here. It’s time to choose your pool design.

You may be excited, but also kind of unsure. You’re choosing something that’s going to become a part of your house, most likely for as long as you live in it, and beyond. It’s not like choosing a paint color that you can change next year if you get tired of it.

We get it. It’s a big decision. Let’s take a look at some tips that will help you choose the ideal pool design for you and your family.

Choose a size range. Note that we said size range—not size. This is a key distinction, because there’s no one perfectly sized pool for your unique backyard. Thursday Pools has a wide selection of fiberglass pool designs, and many of them come in several sizes to ensure that you’ll have the features you want in the space you have available. Be flexible and keep an open mind.
Consider the grand scheme of things. We’ve said this before, but it bears repeating: You probably don’t want to buy the biggest pool you can fit in your yard. Grab your tape measure and go! Don’t be afraid to go the hardware store and purchase yard paint and flags. This is a great way to start visualizing the space! Of the free space that you determine is available, set aside the space you will need for your patio area and landscaping. Consider how far from waters edge you want your furniture, grill, dining, etc. And, take into consideration any potential future additions such as a bath house/cabana, playset, or spa. What space is left? That is the space you have for water.
Plot it out. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices (and before you make your final decision,) get your hands on the plot plan or survey of your lot. This will allow you to see easements or setbacks that may limit the amount of space you have to work with. Do you have any underground private or public utilities that you need to avoid? The plot plan will help you identify if the pool shape and size you’ve chosen are possible, or if you need to rethink your choice.
Follow the 90% rule. There is not going to be one pool design that’s perfect for everyone in your family. Don’t be surprised if you’re having a hard time agreeing on one.

So do this: think about who will be enjoying the pool 90 percent of the time. Be realistic about who’s going to use the pool most and how they’re most likely to use it. Here are some tips to help you prioritize the features that are most important to your family and best fit everyone’s unique needs.

- Are you mostly active pool goers? Do you plan to use your pool for daily exercise or sports? If so, then you want to look for a design that has an open swim lane or an appropriate depth for volleyball. If so, then you may want to look at Thursday Pools designs, like the Goliath, Monolith, Lil Bob, Cathedral or Spirit.
- Are you mostly laid back pool goers? Do the sun worshippers in your family want to be able to soak up the sun on the weekends? If so, consider a Thursday Pools design with a built-in tanning ledge or sun shelf, like the Aspen, Lil Bob LX, Wellspring, Cathedral LX, Pearl or Sun Day.
- Is easy entrance and exit a priority? If you have very young swimmers or older family members who need to be able to sit safely in a shallow area or be able to ease in and out of the pool, a zero entry (or beach entry) fiberglass pool, such as the Grace Beach Entry or Sandal Beach Entry design might be a great choice for you (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). Beach entry pools also provide a fabulous spot for themed pool parties!

Listen to the pros. Sure, no one’s backyard is exactly like yours. However, your local, trusted Thursday Pools dealer has seen hundreds of backyards that are probably pretty similar to yours. They’ve helped many other homeowners make the best choice for them, and they can help you avoid costly mistakes in your planning. They can put together an overall design for your pool project that works with the design of your home, your available space and, of course, your budget.

For additional help choosing the Thursday Pools fiberglass pool design that’s right for you, check out our nifty Pool Selector Tool!

The Langdons Get a Lil Bob | Thursday Pools

Posted on February 7, 2019October 28, 2024 by krista

Meet the Langdons:

Steve and Maya Langdon live in, Oak Park, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. Steve is a brand manager for a well-known online outdoor clothing retailer, and Maya is a yoga instructor. Steve and Maya both adore outdoor adventure, and fitness is very important to them. Their daughter Ellie is almost two years old. Ellie also loves adventure–she’s always up for a jaunt in her stroller, and there’s nothing she loves more than being out in the sunshine. It’s really important to Steve and Maya to teach Ellie about the joys of being playful and feeling healthy and strong.

The Langdons have decided to get a pool.

Steve and Maya are both big on research. When they first started thinking about getting a pool, they were worried that their backyard wasn’t big enough to accommodate a pool while leaving enough room for some grass for Ellie to play in. However, they soon discovered that there are several great pool designs for smaller yards that will allow them to have a fabulous inground pool and still have ample space for a patio and yard. And because they want a low maintenance pool that will give them the best resale value for their house, they’re going with a fiberglass pool over vinyl. Lastly, cost is a factor. They’ll need to finance their new pool, and they know that a smaller pool will require a smaller budget. Now, they just need to choose the best small fiberglass pool design for them.

Here are some some factors they’re considering:

They’re very social. They love to have friends over, and they’re envisioning lots of people hanging out in the pool.
Safety is crucial! They don’t ever want to have to worry that Ellie could wander into the pool unattended, so having a pool that is automatic safety cover-ready is non-negotiable.
A spot for Ellie. The pool needs to have a shallow area for Ellie to hang out while she learns to swim.
No slips and falls. They don’t want anyone to slip getting in and out of the pool, so they don’t want the steps or other surfaces to be slippery.
A place to play. They’d like a uniform depth for a competitive water game like basketball or volleyball.

The Langdons choose the Lil Bob by Thursday Pools.

Here’s why:

The perfect size. The Lil Bob has an overall size of 13.5’ x 27.5’, which packs a ton of swimming fun into the space they have available, while leaving room for furniture, landscaping and some green space for Ellie to play.
Lots of seating. The elongated, wraparound benches create a wonderful conversation area for friends and family.
Safety cover-ready. The Lil Bob is auto-cover ready, giving them both ease of maintenance and peace of mind.
Easy in and out. The full-length entry steps make for easy entrance and exit from the pool and give Ellie a perfect perch for splashing and learning to safely enjoy the water.
Non-skid surface. The non-skid surface on floor, benches and steps of the Lil Bob means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Fun-friendly depth. The flat-bottom 4’6” depth makes it ideal for entertaining and water fun.

The Langdons have their Happily Ever After with their Thursday Pools Lil Bob:

Now, the Langdons love their small backyard. Where there was once just a patch of grass to mow, there’s now a wonderful swimming pool oasis that’s ready to play any time they are. (Which is pretty much all the time.) Ellie loves the water, and “pool” is now her most spoken word! Maya and Steve are having a blast coming up with pool-themed party ideas, and their friends are always ready for the next weekend fiesta. Life is good indeed.

The Langdons found their perfect pool, and you can too, no matter the size of your yard. If you’re ready to start making a lifetime of memories in a new inground fiberglass pool, get an estimate today.

Take a Wet Tour of the Lil Bob!

#perfectpool #ingroundfiberglasspool #poolsoakpark #poolschicago #swimmingpoolschicago #fiberglasspoolschicago #happilyeverafter #getintheswim

*Based on the personalities, demographics and fun-loving spirit of our Thursday Pools customers, we’ve created some fictional families and paired them with their perfect pool!

Trending Small Fiberglass Pool Designs for Small Backyards

Posted on February 6, 2019October 28, 2024 by krista

Do you have a small backyard? It’s not a bad thing. While your neighbors are toiling away mowing their sprawling expanses of green, you’ve finished in a snap and are ready to relax with a cold beverage. Wouldn’t it be great if you could enjoy that cold beverage lounging next to (or floating in!) a refreshing small fiberglass pool? Your small yard doesn’t mean you can’t create a fabulous, intimate backyard getaway with a small pool. There are undoubtedly small fiberglass pool designs to suit your tastes and lifestyle.

Small fiberglass pools can make a significant impact on your social life and quality family time, and overall fitness and well-being. And if in your quest for a smaller pool you find yourself asking, “is a fiberglass pool worth the money?” we’d like to assure you that there are resources out there to help you make that determination. Stay tuned until the end for small fiberglass pools F.A.Q. to get more information.

If you know fiberglass is the way for you, check out these four fabulous small fiberglass pool designs from Thursday Pools that can turn your small backyard into a fun zone for the entire swim season. Meet Sea Turtle, Lil Bob, Titus, and Aspen!

Sea Turtle

Every bit of this small fiberglass pool packs a punch with its open swim area and flat-bottom 4’6″ depth. If you’re looking to get more exercise in the new year, Sea Turtle can be outfitted to accommodate a Badu Swim Jet System, which will turn your pool into a water treadmill. A wrap-around bench on either side of the steps increases your area to chat, relax, and unwind. And if you want a spa-like experience after exercising and socializing, this versatile pool design can also be outfitted with therapy jets.

Take a closer look at the Sea Turtle’s features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Sea Turtle has an overall size of 9.5’ x 19.5’.

Elongated benches can be outfitted with spa jets for the ultimate relaxation experience.
A flat-bottom 4’6″ depth is ideal for socializing. Most adults can walk the entire pool without treading water.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Ideal design for swim jet systems like Badu.
Auto-cover ready for ease of maintenance and peace of mind.

Lil Bob

Known as the perfect small pool, Lil Bob is one of Thursday Pools’ top-selling fiberglass pool designs. This fiberglass pool is small in size but big in stature with all the most loved features of Sea Turtle, upsized!

Take a closer look at the Lil Bob’s features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Lil Bob has an overall size of 13.5’ x 27.5’.

Wrap-around, elongated benches create a wonderful conversation area for friends and family.
The flat-bottom 4’6″ depth makes it ideal for entertaining and water fun.
Elegant, full-length entry steps make entering and exiting the pool easy.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Auto-cover ready for ease of maintenance and peace of mind.

Titus

With a classic “Figure 8” shape, Titus adds a simple silhouette to any small yard. This small fiberglass pool goes a little deeper than most other small pools, plunging to a 5’5” depth. You’ll find yourself spending countless hours soaking on the deep-end bench, feeling the stress of the day melt away.

Take a closer look at Titus’ features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Titus has an overall size of 12’x 26’.

A roomy deep-end bench is a perfect spot to sip your favorite summertime refreshment.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Wide entry steps with seats give you easy in and out, plus a great place to sit and chill.

Aspen

*Note: This Aspen pictured above is in our 16’’ x 40’ size.

Looking for a fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge? Look no further than Aspen. Coming in 5 different sizes, the smallest being 12’ x 25’ with a 5’1” depth, Aspen can make itself at home in almost any yard. This design includes many desired pool features, so the whole family can find a place to have fun.

Take a closer look at Aspen’s features.

Or, jump into this 360 view!

Key Features:

Aspen comes in 5 sizes, ranging from 12’ x 25’ to 16’ x 40’.

Tanning ledge, which is perfect for ledge loungers.
Non-skid surface on the floor, stairs, benches, and tanning ledge is easy on your feet and swimsuit.
An extended bench gives you a place to relax, unwind and socialize.
Dual swim outs and benches provide comfort and convenience in the deep end of the pool.
The courtesy ledge around the deep end gives you a place to stand and rest.
A wide-open swim area makes exercising in your new pool easy and fun.
Auto-cover ready to help you keep your new pool safe and clean.

Small Fiberglass Pool F.A.Q.

Q: What Sizes Do Fiberglass Pools Come In?

A: Fiberglass pools come in a variety of sizes! Our smallest designs come in at 9.5’ x 19.5’ (Sea Turtle) and 15’ x 25’ (Pearl). Our largest measures in at 16’ x 41’ (Goliath). Fiberglass pools tend to not get much larger than a 16’ x 40’-41’ size due to shipping limitations. There are other fiberglass options beyond a traditional pool if you’re looking for something smaller, such as a Wet Deck or a Wading Pool.

Q: Can Fiberglass Pools Be Any Shape?

A: Fiberglass pools are not able to be customized for shape or size. A fiberglass pool shell’s shape and size are determined by the fiberglass pool manufacturers designing them and are produced from a mold.

Q: How Much Will a Small Fiberglass Pool Cost Me?

A: Pricing can vary depending on many factors, including your geographic location, what features and accessories you decide to add on, if there are any permits required in your area and more. Your local fiberglass pool dealer can give you more accurate estimates for where you live. You can also try our inground fiberglass pool cost calculator for a ballpark estimate of your project.

No matter which Thursday Pools small pool design you choose, your tiny patch of grass will be converted into the perfect staycation spot for years of memorable moments. Need some more backyard inspiration? Check out Small Backyard Pool Ideas on a Budget to find just that!!

Get an estimate today.

Ask The General: The Benefits of a Rectangular Pool

Posted on February 5, 2019March 28, 2024 by krista

Dear General-

My family has committed to getting in shape in 2019, and we’ve decided that since we want to have fun doing it, one of the ways we’ll get more exercise is with a new fiberglass pool! There are so many pool shapes and sizes out there—what are the best pools for both exercise and fun?

Signed,

Getting Fit in Fishers

Dear Getting Fit-

First of all, congrats on the decision to get an inground pool. You won’t regret it. In addition to getting in shape together– you’ll enjoy quality time with friends and family.

When evaluating shapes to accommodate both exercise and games, a rectangular pool is your best bet. Let’s take a look at the reasons they’re great from several angles.

They’re excellent for lap swimming. Since you’ve mentioned that exercise is one of your primary goals, a larger rectangular pool makes the most sense because of the wide-open swim lanes and straight sides. While you can also find some large freeform pools with wide-open swim lanes, the uniform length of a rectangular provides plenty of space for multiple swimmers to swim laps side-by-side.
They play nice with automatic pool covers. You’ve heard me talk about how much I like automatic pool covers for so many reasons, such as ease of maintenance, reduced chemical use and peace of mind (safety). Most any rectangular pool is compatible with automatic pool covers, making it easy for your pool builder to install while they’re putting in your new pool.
They’re easier to keep clean. I personally have an “L” shaped pool, but my next pool will be a rectangle. The “L” shape is very functional because you have a deep end along with big shallow end. However, it is very hard (nearly impossible) and expensive to install an automatic cover. Plus, it’s not very compatible with automatic cleaners, so unless you strategically placed return water inlets (eyeballs), surface debris collects in the corners. I’m all for easier pool maintenance, so I’ll vote for anything that simplifies it.
They’re easier (and cheaper) to install. Whether you’re choosing vinyl, fiberglass or gunite, rectangle pools are just easier to install. And since time is money, that means you’ll save a bit when it comes to installing a rectangular pool over other shapes. With a vinyl liner pool, rectangles are easier to square up and level during installation, and the liners fit better in rectangles than they do in freeform pools. Gunite (concrete) rectangular pools are by far easier to frame during construction than shaped pools. And when it comes to fiberglass pools, they’re manufactured in one piece at the factory, so framing isn’t a concern, but the dig specs are much more straightforward with a rectangle. So, no matter which kind of pool you choose, rectangles can be easier on your budget.
You can get the best of both. Maybe you’re thinking, “But General, I don’t like so many straight lines. I want our pool to be unique!” Well, first of all, your pool will be unique because it’s yours. You’ll put your own spin on the furniture, landscaping and accessories. Additionally, when you choose a rectangular pool, that doesn’t mean you can’t have rounded corners, square corners, reversed radius corners or diagonal corners. You can also make your concrete deck any shape you want. So, if you want a lima bean, an “L” or a full-on freeform, you could accomplish that same look with decking all the way around your rectangle pool. And, if you REALLY want it to be unique, get a rectangular beach entry fiberglass pool (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). They just came out, so you’ll most likely be the only ones in your neighborhood to have one.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying freeform pools aren’t great. Dome-shaped pools are great. Pools, in general, are great. In a future post, I’ll point out the virtues of non-rectangular pools, but from what you’ve told me about how you want to use your pool, I personally think rectangular is the way to go. Best wishes.

Until next time-

The General

Every month, The General uses his more than 30 years’ experience in the pool business to tackle a topic for curious pool owners. Stay tuned for more helpful pool owner tips and tricks!

January Fiberglass Pool Dealer Spotlight: W.E.T. Pools and Spas, Effingham, Illinois

Posted on January 25, 2019October 24, 2024 by krista

Every month, we chat with Thursday Pools dealers to learn more about their business and what’s trending in their area. This month, we talked to Doug Thoele, owner of W.E.T. Pools and Spas in Effingham, Illinois.

Tell us a little about yourself and your business.

We were originally in the pressure washer business. I started the company with a couple of partners in 1996. When the economy went south, around 1999, we switched gears. We had named the company Water Equipment Technologies (W.E.T.) so that we could go in more than one direction with the business if we needed to. It seemed at that time like there weren’t too many pool and spa companies around here, so we thought we’d work our way into that market. It turned out pretty well. And now, as far as the ownership goes, it’s just me.

What geographic areas do you serve?

We serve most of southern Illinois, and we’ll go as far as 75-100 miles away. Our primary service areas for fiberglass pool installations are Effingham, Charleston, Marshall, Mattoon, Shelbyville and Vandalia, Illinois.

What do you love about being in the pool business?

I like that it’s seasonal, and I like to work outside. We started out as a service business, and that’s what we still are. I wouldn’t have it any other way. We have great customers and that makes my job really easy.

What Thursday Pools fiberglass pool designs and colors are the most popular among pool buyers in the areas you serve?

Our biggest seller is the Lil Bob. We also sell a lot of Goliaths and Aspens. Automatic pool covers are pretty much standard around here, so we like pools that are auto-cover ready. We work with APC (Automatic Pool Covers), and we like them a lot. Most of our customers have pretty big lots, so they have room for deep and large fiberglass pools. We sell lots of 16 x 40s. California is by far our most popular color.

What are the most popular add-on features in the fiberglass pools that W.E.T. Pools and Spas installs right now?

We do lots of salt systems and lighting packages—also, deck jets, some waterfalls and a fair amount of slides. We don’t do any diving boards.

What do you think about Thursday Pools’ new beach entry designs?

We’ve been watching the new beach entry designs, Grace and Sandal (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). We haven’t had any hits on them yet. I’m curious as to how the automatic pool covers are going to work with them, and I’m looking forward to learning more about them at the Dealer Conference next month.

What particular challenges does W.E.T. Pools and Spas face with fiberglass pool installations in your part of Indiana?

We’re pretty fortunate there—no complaints. We don’t have rocky soil, and most of our customers have pretty wide open access. So I guess we’re lucky compared to some.

What’s the cost of an average inground pool installation for you?

Our average inground fiberglass pool installation is around $45,000. That includes excavation, the pool itself, LED lighting, an automatic pool safety cover and the electrical work. We don’t do concrete or landscaping. We do about 18 inground fiberglass pool installations per year and around 25 vinyl liners.

What trends has W.E.T. Pools and Spas seen emerge lately in the inground fiberglass pool industry?

I’ve used Thursday Pools’ Backfill Eliminator®. I think it works pretty well. We use the Lucky 7 Skimmer® on every pool we install. It’s saved us a ton of trouble. It makes the skimmers so much easier to install, and they work better too.

What have you noticed changing in pool buyers’ demographics over the years?

Pool buyers are getting younger, I think. Our typical customers are families where both Mom and Dad work. They’re in the 35 to 45 year-old range. They buy a new house, and then put in a pool.

What works for W.E.T. Pools and Spas in terms of marketing?

We don’t do any marketing! We have enough to do! Seriously, it’s hard to find good workers, so we keep our business to what we can handle with the staff we have. If you can find a company that manufactures hard workers, let me know.

What are your thoughts on Thursday Pools?

Thursday Pools is a top-notch company. They do things right. Their pools are easy to install because their dig specs are just dead-on. When you excavate for one of their pools, you know it’s going to fit. I’ve had other companies where the specs are off, or the pools are lower quality. Thursday Pools makes a really high quality product.

Another great thing is their literature and marketing materials. This has traditionally been “Vinyl Liner Country” around here. It was hard to get customers to understand the benefits of fiberglass pools for a while. Thursday Pools gave us lots of good literature to help us show people the benefits of fiberglass pools over other types of pools.

I also like the fact that I can always talk to them. They always have time. They’re just good people.

What’s the secret to W.E.T. Pool and Spa’s success?

Well, like I said before, we’re in the service business. I don’t like being in the spotlight because it’s not about us. It’s about our customers. We place a high emphasis on education and helping our customers get the most out of their pools. One of the things that’s been really successful for us is our Pool School, which we offer through our retail store every year in April. We offer our customers education on water chemistry and testing and pool maintenance in general and usually have at least 80 people attend.

Other than that, when it comes to installations, we just try not to take risks. It’s important to me that we do things right, the first time.

You are by this NOTICE advised that pools manufactured by Thursday Pools are sold by independent dealers and dealerships. Each dealer is an independent business entity, that is completely separate from the manufacturer, Thursday Pools. Each dealer is an independent contractor, and no dealer is an owner, agent (in fact or law), or employee of Thursday Pools, the manufacturer. Thursday Pools, the manufacturer, hereby disclaims any liability for an intentional or negligent act by any dealer, dealership, or installer, or any damage to any Thursday Pools pool caused by an act of any dealer, dealership, or installer.

Some of the content in this blog may reflect prices, perspectives, processes, entities, and names that were relevant at the time but may not be accurate today.